Groove indicated junction box

ABSTRACT

In an example embodiment, a junction box may include a flashing. The flashing may define a first groove. The first groove may be disposed relative to a first center axis on a first plane. The junction box may also include a housing. The housing may include a bottom portion. The bottom portion may define a second groove. The second groove may be disposed relative to a second center axis. The second center axis may be coincident with the first center axis in a direction that is substantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove. In addition, the second groove may be located on a second plane that is substantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove. Further, the second groove may be configured to indicate a suitable hole position in the bottom portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/259,887 filed Jan. 28, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No.10,505,354 titled “JUNCTION BOX,” which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/963,707 filed Apr. 26, 2018, nowU.S. Pat. No. 10,230,227 titled “OUTDOOR JUNCTION BOX.” The foregoingapplications are incorporated in the present disclosure by reference intheir entirety.

FIELD

The embodiments described in the present disclosure are related tojunction boxes, in particular some embodiments are related to junctionboxes.

BACKGROUND

Junction boxes may be used to receive, route, and connect portions ofutility systems. For instance, junction boxes may receive electricalcables from multiple electrical components. The electrical cables may beelectrically coupled to one another within the junction boxes. Suchelectrical coupling may electrically couple the multiple electricalcomponents. The junction boxes may be covered or otherwise closed, whichmay reduce interaction with the electrical cables coupled therein.

Junction boxes used in interior spaces are generally comprised of metalsor plastics. These junction boxes are poorly suited for use in locationsin which they are exposed to outdoor environmental conditions. Forinstance, the junction boxes comprised of metals or plastics may rust ordeteriorate due to exposure to water and heat.

Some junction boxes may be configured for exterior or outdoor use. Theexterior junction boxes may be used to connect and/or route cables fromone or more external devices. The external junction boxes may beattached to an exterior surface of a structure and may be at leastpartially environmentally sealed. However, existing outdoor junctionboxes suffer from several deficiencies. For instance, existing outdoorjunction boxes are poorly integrated with the exterior surfaces, whichmay result in concentration of snow and water on the existing junctionbox. Additionally, installation of the existing outdoor junction boxesmay be difficult, which may result in poorly attached outdoor junctionboxes.

The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments thatsolve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such asthose described above. Rather, this background is only provided toillustrate one example technology area where some embodiments describedherein may be practiced.

SUMMARY

In an example embodiment, a junction box may include a flashing. Theflashing may define a first groove. The first groove may be disposedrelative to a first center axis on a first plane. The junction box mayalso include a housing. The housing may include a bottom portion. Thebottom portion may define a second groove. The second groove may bedisposed relative to a second center axis. The second center axis may becoincident with the first center axis in a direction that issubstantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove. Inaddition, the second groove may be located on a second plane that issubstantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove. Further,the second groove may be configured to indicate a suitable hole positionin the bottom portion.

In another example embodiment, a junction box may include a firstflashing. The first flashing may define a first groove. The first groovemay be disposed relative to a first center axis on a first plane. Thejunction box may also include a housing. The housing may be attached tothe first flashing. In addition, the housing may be positioned at leasta first distance from a plurality of edges of the first flashing. Thehousing may include a plurality of sidewalls. The housing may alsoinclude a bottom portion. The bottom portion may be attached to theplurality of sidewalls. In addition, the bottom portion may define asecond groove. The second groove may be disposed relative to a secondcenter axis. The second center axis may be coincident with the firstcenter axis in a direction that is substantially parallel to the firstplane of the first groove. In addition, the second groove may be locatedon a second plane that is substantially parallel to the first plane ofthe first groove. Further, the second groove may be configured toindicate a suitable hole position in the bottom portion. The junctionbox may also include an extension housing. The extension housing may beconfigured to attach to an upper surface of the housing. The extensionhousing may include a plurality of extension sidewalls. In addition, theextension housing may include a drip edge. The drip edge may beconfigured to overhang where the housing and the extension housing areattached. Further, the junction box may include a second flashing. Thesecond flashing may be positioned between at least a portion of the dripedge and the housing.

In another example embodiment, a junction box may include a housing. Thehousing may include a plurality of sidewalls. The housing may alsoinclude an external portion. The external portion may be attached to theplurality of sidewalls. The external portion may also define a firstgroove that is disposed relative to a first center axis on a firstplane. In addition, the housing may include a bottom portion. The bottomportion may be attached to the plurality of sidewalls. The bottomportion may also define a second groove that is disposed relative to asecond center axis. In addition, the external portion may define anotch. The notch may be configured to mate with a shingle on an exteriorsurface of a structure. The second center axis may be coincident withthe first center axis on a direction that is substantially parallel tothe first plane of the first groove. In addition, the second groove maybe located on a second plane that is substantially parallel to the firstplane of the first groove. Further, the second groove may be configuredto indicate a suitable hole position in the bottom portion.

These example embodiments are mentioned not to limit or define thedisclosure, but to provide examples to aid understanding thereof.Additional embodiments are discussed in the Detailed Description, andfurther description is provided there. Advantages offered by one or moreof the various embodiments may be further understood by examining thisspecification or by practicing one or more embodiments presented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentdisclosure are better understood when the following Detailed Descriptionis read with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates an operating environment in which an example junctionbox may be implemented;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B illustrates another perspective view of the junction of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2C illustrates another perspective view of the junction box of FIG.1;

FIG. 3A illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4A illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5A illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B illustrates another view of the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6A illustrates a bottom view of the junction box of FIG. 1 with afirst adhesive material attached to at least a portion of the firstsurface of the flashing;

FIG. 6B illustrates a top view of the junction box of FIG. 1 with asecond adhesive material attached to at least a portion of the secondsurface of the flashing;

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear sectional view of an alternative sidewall andlid configuration that may be implemented in the junction box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an alternative junction boxconfiguration that may be implemented in the environment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative junction boxthat includes an extension housing that may be implemented in theenvironment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 illustrates a rear sectional view of the junction box of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11A illustrates an example configuration for attaching the secondflashing to the junction box of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11B illustrates another example configuration for attaching thesecond flashing to the junction box of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 11C illustrates yet another example configuration for attaching thesecond flashing to the junction box of FIG. 9,

all arranged in accordance with at least one embodiment described in thepresent disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A junction box may be used for routing cables, wires, and/or otherdevices coupled to an external device located on an exterior surface ofa structure to an interior space of the structure. For example, thecables, wires, and/or other devices may be coupled to a solar panellocated on a roof of a house. Other devices may include coaxial cables,registered jack 45 (“RJ45”) cables, and any other appropriate device.The cables, wires, and/or other devices may be routed from the externaldevice to electrical connections located in the interior space of thestructure using the junction box.

Some junction boxes may include knock-outs and/or holes. The knock-outsare portions of the junction box configured to easily detach to createan opening. The knock-outs and/or the holes are located atpre-determined locations in a housing of the junction box. The openingsleft when the knock-outs are removed and/or the holes may enable thecables, wires, and/or other devices to be routed into the housing of thejunction box. Connectors may be fitted to the housing to seal theopenings and holes through which the cables, wires, and/or other devicesare routed.

Additionally, in some junction boxes, a lid may overlap a bottom pieceof the housing. In particular, the lid, when attached to the housing,may extend beyond sidewalls of the bottom piece, which may define aspace between the lid and the bottom portion that is substantiallyunsealed. Accordingly, environmental items such as water and dirt mayenter the housing through the space, which may result in damage to thecables, wires, and/or other devices in the junction box. Additionally,portions of the environmental items may enter an interior structureadjacent to the exterior surface to which the junction box is attached.

Housings of some junction boxes may include a substantially square orrectangular shape. When these junction boxes are installed, surfaces ofthe housing are positioned at an angle substantially perpendicular to aflow of fluid on the exterior surface of the structure (e.g.,substantially parallel to an apex of the exterior surface). Accordingly,fluids (e.g., rain, snow, and/or melting snow) may pool against thesurface of the housing, which may reduce a life of the junction box.

Attachment features of junction boxes may limit placement relative toexterior surfaces. For example, some junction boxes may include a pipeor conduit that extends from a bottom surface of the junction box. Tocheck placement and fit of the junction box, a hole in the exteriorsurface of the structure is created prior to placement of the junctionbox. Additionally, the pipe or the conduit extending from the bottomsurface may be fixed relative to the junction box, which may cause aproblem routing the cables or wires, into the interior space of thestructure. For instance, if placement of the junction box causes thepipe or the conduit to be adjacent to a rafter or other structuralsupport.

Some junction boxes may include conductive material (e.g., metal). Thesejunction boxes must be electrically grounded to pass inspection in atleast some jurisdictions. The junction box may be grounded using aground of the structure and/or a ground of the external device.Grounding the junction box may increase a number of connections to thesejunction boxes, time involved in installation of these junction boxes,and/or a number of pieces of equipment used for installation of thesejunction boxes. Some junction boxes may include a lid or another portionthat may be selectively attached to the housing. These lids may be smallor include parts that are small and thus may be easily dropped and lost,which may introduce problems passing inspection and/or cost additionalexpense to replace the lost lids or included parts.

Installation of junction boxes on the exterior surface of a structuremay be difficult and dangerous. Junction boxes that include featuresthat reduce time, a number of tools, and/or a number of pieces ofequipment used to install the junction boxes (collectively,resources/complexity) may reduce risks and costs associated withinstallation of the junction boxes. Reductions in theresources/complexity may be achieved by using a junction box thatincludes more suitable locations for routing cables, wires, and/or otherdevices from the external device while environmentally sealing a housingof the junction box (e.g., sealed to substantially prevent contaminantssuch as dirt, water, snow, or other environmental elements from enteringan internal volume of the housing). Additionally, reduction of theresources/complexity may also be achieved by using a junction box thatincludes surfaces of the housing that shed fluids, that retain removablepieces (e.g., a lid or other fasteners), and that are not comprised ofconductive materials (e.g., does not include metal).

Accordingly, embodiments described in the present disclosure aredirected to a junction box that addresses some or all of theshortcomings of the junction boxes described above. In some embodiments,a junction box may include a flashing and a housing. The flashing may beconfigured to be positioned between multiple layers of shingles. Theflashing may cover holes that are exposed due to shingle fasteners beingremoved during installation of the junction box. The flashing may definea first groove. The first groove may indicate suitable placement ofsealant and/or other adhesives on a first surface of the flashing.Suitable placement of the sealant and/or adhesives on the first surfaceof the flashing may be between a perimeter of the first groove and oneor more edges of the flashing.

The junction box may include the housing, which may be attached to theflashing and positioned a distance from the edges of the flashing. Thehousing may include a bottom portion that defines a second groove. Thesecond groove may indicate suitable positions for creation of a hole ina bottom portion of the housing. Cables, wires, and/or other devices maybe routed into an interior space of a structure through the createdhole. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second groove may indicatesuitable placement of fasteners for attachment of the junction box tothe exterior surface of the structure. Suitable positions for creating ahole in the bottom portion may be anywhere within the second groove.

Indicating suitable positions for the hole may permit the junction boxto be attached to the exterior surface without creating holes in theexterior surface prior to placement of the junction box. The secondgroove may be sized so that rafters or other support structures may beadjacent to the second groove while leaving sufficient clearance for ahole to be created without drilling into the rafters or other supportstructures. The size and position of the second groove may permit thejunction box to be positioned at a location that is functional relativeto the external device rather than relative to the rafters and/or othersupport structures. Additionally, a size and/or a position of the secondgroove may correspond to the first groove.

In some embodiments, the housing may include multiple sidewalls thatmeet to form joints. A first joint formed by a first sidewall and asecond sidewall may be oriented towards a first edge of the flashing.When installed on the structure, the first joint may be oriented towardsan apex of the exterior surface (e.g., substantially parallel to a flowof a fluid on the exterior surface). The first sidewall and the secondsidewall may be positioned at an angle not parallel to the first edge ofthe flashing. The first joint and the positioning of the first sidewalland the second sidewall may prevent and/or reduce fluid from pooling ona surface of the housing.

In some embodiments, the lid, the flashing, and the joints may defineone or more areas. The areas may indicate suitable positions forcreating holes in the sidewalls to route the cables, wires, and/or theother devices from the external device into the internal volume of thehousing. When fastened to the sidewalls, the connector mayenvironmentally seal the holes in the sidewalls.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the junction box may include a gasketpositioned such that when the lid is attached to the housing, the gasketis compressed between the lid and a portion of the housing toenvironmentally seal an internal volume defined by the lid, thesidewalls, and a bottom portion of the housing. In some embodiments, thejunction box may be comprised of a single unibody piece of material thatforms the housing and the flashing. In these and other embodiments, thejunction box may include a non-conductive material (e.g., plastic).Thus, the junction box may not require electrical grounding\.Alternatively, the junction box may include a metallic material topermit implementation of the junction box with different exteriorsurfaces of the structure that permit the use of metallic materials, forexample, tile exterior surfaces.

In some embodiments, the junction box may include adhesive materials(e.g., peel and stick materials) on the flashing that adhere thejunction box to the exterior surface of the structure or adhere theshingles to the flashing. Including the adhesive material on theflashing may reduce resources/complexity of installing the junction box.In addition, the adhesive material may reduce equipment used to installthe junction box. Further, the adhesive material may ensure that sealantis used (e.g., the adhesive material) that meets code. Additionally, theadhesive material may improve the likelihood of holes that are made inthe exterior surface of the structure are sheltered from moisture suchas rain, snow, dirt, etc.

In some embodiments, the lid may attach to the housing of the junctionbox by press fit, slide fit or snap fit. Attaching the lid to thehousing by press fit, slide fit or snap fit may also reduce theresources/complexity of installing the junction box. Further, Attachingthe lid to the housing by press fit, slide fit, or snap fit rather thanfasteners may reduce a cost associated with the junction box.

In some embodiments, a junction box may be configured for use with tileshingles. The junction box configured for use with tile shingles mayinclude an extension housing. The extension housing may attach to thehousing and extend a height of the junction box beyond the tile shinglesrelative to the exterior surface of the structure. In addition, a secondflashing may be positioned between the extension housing and thehousing. The second flashing may conform to a surface of the tileshingles. In combination with the first flashing, the second flashingmay prevent moisture from entering the structure via the holes made inthe tile shingles and the exterior surface of the structure.

These and other embodiments of the present disclosure will be explainedwith reference to the accompanying figures. It is to be understood thatthe figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of suchexample embodiments, and are not limiting, nor are they necessarilydrawn to scale. In the figures, features with like numbers indicate likestructure and function unless described otherwise.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example operating environment 100 in which ajunction box 106 may be implemented. The operating environment 100 mayinclude a structure 108 on which an external device 102 and the junctionbox 106 are installed. The external device 102 may be connected to thejunction box 106 via a connection device 104. For example, the structure108 may include an exterior surface. The exterior surface in theoperating environment 100 of FIG. 1 includes a shingled roof. In otherenvironments, the exterior surface may include, another type of roof, anexterior array, an angled wall, or another suitable exterior surface.The external device 102 and the junction box 106 may be attached to theexterior surface of the structure 108. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, thestructure 108 includes a house. In other embodiments, the structure 108may include another structure such as a shed, a garage, a solar array,or another suitable structure to which the external device 102 and/orthe junction box 106 may be attached.

The external device 102 may include any device that includes cables,wires, and/or other devices that are to be routed from the externaldevice 102 to an interior space of the structure 108. For example, theexternal device 102 may include a solar panel array, a satellite dish,or a battery system. The solar panel array may include photovoltaicwires that are to be routed through the junction box 106 into theinterior space of the structure 108. In some embodiments, the cables,wires, and/or other devices may be routed through the exterior surfacevia the junction box 106. The cables, wires, and/or other devices maythen electrically couple the external device 102 to an electrical devicelocated in an interior space of the structure 108 or to a power grid. Insome embodiments, the cables, wires, or other devices from multipleexternal devices (e.g., the external device 102) may be joined at thejunction box 106.

In embodiments in which the exterior surface includes a shingled roof,when installed, a portion of the junction box 106 (e.g., a portion of aflashing) may be placed under a layer of shingles on the exteriorsurface. For example, one or more shingles may be raised away from theexterior surface and the portion of the flashing of the junction box 106may be placed between the shingles and the exterior surface. Theshingles may be shaped corresponding to a first joint, a first sidewall,and/or a second sidewall of a housing of the junction box 106. Someadditional details of examples of the first joint, the first sidewall,the second sidewall, and the housing are provided elsewhere in thepresent disclosure. The shingles may be shaped using substantiallystraight lines corresponding to the first joint, the first sidewall,and/or the second sidewall of the junction box 106. The junction box 106may be configured to be used with asphalt shingles, tile shingles, metalroofing, rolled asphalt surfaces, EPDM surfaces, or any otherappropriate exterior surface material.

Additionally, the junction box 106 may be installed so that the firstjoint of the housing may be oriented towards an apex 107 of the exteriorsurface (e.g., a ridge line of the roof). The first joint may beoriented towards the apex 107 of the exterior surface (e.g.,substantially parallel to the flow of a fluid 573 on the exteriorsurface). The junction box 106 may be installed below the apex 107relative to gravity. Additionally, a first edge of the flashing may beinstalled substantially parallel to the apex 107 of the structure (e.g.,substantially perpendicular to the flow of the fluid 573 on the exteriorsurface). The first sidewall and the second sidewall may be positionedat angles substantially not parallel relative to the apex 107 of theexterior surface.

The first joint, the first sidewall, and/or the second sidewall mayprevent and/or reduce the fluid 573 from pooling on a surface of thejunction box 106. For example, the flow of the fluid 573 may be in adirection away from the apex 107, relative to gravity, towards thejunction box 106. The flow of the fluid 573 may cause at least a portionof the fluid 573 to contact the first joint of the housing, the firstsidewall, and/or the second sidewall. The portion of the fluid 573 thatcontacts the first joint may contact the first joint then traverse alonga surface of the first sidewall or the second sidewall. Additionally,the fluid 573 that contacts the first sidewall or the second sidewallmay traverse the corresponding sidewall. The angles of the firstsidewall and the second sidewall may direct the fluid 573 away from thehousing. The angles of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and thefirst joint may prevent the fluid 573 from pooling on a surface of thehousing.

The cables, wires, and/or other devices may be routed from the externaldevice 102 to the junction box 106 through the connection device 104. Insome embodiments, the connection device 104 may include a conduit. Inother embodiments, the connection device 104 may include the cables,wires, and/or other devices and a connector. In these and otherembodiments, the connector may include multiple pieces configured toattach to each other and sandwich a portion of the housing surrounding ahole in a sidewall of the housing between the pieces. The connector mayenvironmentally seal the hole in which the cables or wires are routedthrough. Although, the junction box 106 as illustrated includes a singleconnection point on a single sidewall of the junction box 106, multipleconnection points may be used on multiple sidewalls and/or a singlesidewall or a single connection point may be used on multiple sidewalls.

The junction box 106 may provide an environmentally sealed device forrouting cables, wires, and/or other devices from the external device 102to the interior space of the structure 108. In some embodiments, thejunction box 106 may provide an environmentally sealed device forhousing wire nuts, grounding lugs, split bolt splicing, Polarisconnectors, fuses, breakers or any other appropriate device or componentfor routing the cables, wires, and other devices from the externaldevice 102 to the interior space of the structure 108.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C illustrate perspective views of an embodiment ofthe junction box 106 of FIG. 1. The junction box 106 may be implementedon the exterior surface of the structure and may provide a structurethrough which cables, wires, and/or other devices may be routed.

With combined reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, the junction box 106 may includea flashing 212, a housing 210, and a lid 214. The flashing 212 mayinclude at least one of a first edge 224 a, a second edge 224 b, a thirdedge 224 c, and a fourth edge 224 d (generally, edge 224 or edges 224).The edges 224 may define a perimeter of the flashing 212.

A portion of the flashing 212 may be placed under a portion of anexterior surface of the structure. For example, the portion of theflashing may be placed under a portion of the shingles. The portion ofthe exterior surface may contact a portion of a second surface 222 ofthe flashing 212 (illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B). The portion of theflashing 212 that may be placed under a portion of the exterior surfacemay extend from the first edge 224 a up to a second joint 226 b and afifth joint 226 e of the housing 210. For example, an end of the portionof the exterior surface may be coplanar with the second joint 226 b andthe fifth joint 226 e. Additionally, at least a portion of a firstsurface 220 of the flashing 212 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 2C) maycontact the structure.

The first surface 220 of the flashing 212 may define a first groove 442(e.g., illustrated in FIG. 2C). A size and a position of the firstgroove 442 may correspond to a size and/or a position of a second groove352 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B). The first groove 442 mayindicate suitable placement of sealant or other suitable adhesive on thefirst surface 220 of the flashing 212. Suitable placement of the sealantmay be between the first groove 442 and the edges 224 of the flashing212. The suitable placement may prevent a user from placing a hole in abottom portion 350 of the housing 210 that corresponds to where thesealant may be placed. In some embodiments, the sealant may be placed ina semi-circle shape. The first groove 442 may provide a reference for aradius of the semi-circle shape. Alternatively, an adhesive material maybe pre-attached to the first surface 220 of the flashing 212 asdiscussed below in relation to FIG. 6B.

Although, the first groove 442 as illustrated is substantially anopen-ended hexagonal groove defined by the first surface 220 of theflashing 212, the first groove 442 may include another appropriateindicia for indication of suitable placement of the sealant on the firstsurface 220 of the flashing 212.

In some embodiments, an edge material (not illustrated) may be attachedto one or more of the edges 224 of the flashing 212. In these and otherembodiments, the flashing 212 may include a pliable material such asethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and the edge material mayinclude an aluminum material. The edge material may be configured to beshaped to match a contour of the exterior surface. For example, the edgematerial may be configured to be shaped to match a contour of the tileshingles. The edge material, when shaped, may cause the flashing 212 toalso be shaped to match a contour of the exterior surface of thestructure.

The housing 210 may be attached to the flashing 212. Additionally, thehousing 210 may be positioned a distance from the edges 224. Thedistance the housing 210 is positioned from the edges 224 may be suchthat the perimeter of the second groove 352 is at least a particulardistance from the edges 224. Additionally or alternatively, the housing210 may be positioned from the edges 224 such that a first boss 219 a, asecond boss 219 b, a third boss 219 c, and a fourth boss 219 d(generally, boss 219 or bosses 219) are at least the particular distancefrom the edges 224. The particular distance is discussed in more detailwith reference to FIGS. 3B and 4B.

Additionally, the housing 210 may be positioned such that a first joint226 a is oriented towards the first edge 224 a. The first joint 226 amay be formed such that, when the junction box 106 is installed, thefirst joint 226 a is oriented towards the apex of the exterior surfaceof the structure, such as the apex of a roof. Additionally, a firstsidewall 218 a and a second sidewall 218 b may be positioned such thatan angle formed by the first sidewall 218 a and the second sidewall 218b at the first joint 226 a may be between five degrees and one hundredseventy degrees. For example, the angle may be between sixty-fivedegrees and one hundred twenty degrees. Furthermore, the first sidewall218 a and the second sidewall 218 b may form the first joint 226 a suchthat the first joint 226 a is oriented towards the apex of a structure,which may permit the junction box 106 to be installed while reducing anamount of fluid that pools on surfaces of the housing 210.

An area on sidewalls 218 of the housing 210 may indicate suitablepositions for creating holes in the housing 210 (e.g., suitable holepositions in the housing 210). The suitable positions for creating holesin the housing 210 may be configured for electrical metallic tubing(EMT) connectors, strain reliefs, polyvinyl (PVC) connectors, Rigidconnectors, non-metallic liquid tight conduit, or any other appropriateconnector type for routing the cables, wires, and/or other devicesthrough a hole in the housing 210 and environmentally sealing the hole.For example, the suitable positions for creating holes in the housing210 may permit connectors that include a diameter between about aquarter inch and about two inches to be used. The areas on the sidewalls218 may permit connectors to be fitted to the housing 210 in more placesand/or using more types of connectors. Additionally, the areas on thesidewalls 218 may permit connectors to be fitted on more sides of thehousing 210, which may also permit the junction box 106 to be installedin a place on the exterior surface that reduces a number of connectorsor a distance between the junction box 106 and an external device. Theareas on the sidewalls 218 are discussed in more detail below inrelation to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

The housing 210 may include the first sidewall 218 a, the secondsidewall 218 b, the third sidewall 218 c, the fourth sidewall 218 d, andthe fifth sidewall 218 e (generally, sidewalls 218 or sidewall 218). Thefirst sidewall 218 a and the second sidewall 218 b may form the firstjoint 226 a. The second sidewall 218 b and the third sidewall 218 c mayform the second joint 226 b. The third sidewall 218 c and the fourthsidewall 218 d may form a third joint 226 c. The fourth sidewall 218 dand the fifth sidewall 218 e may form a fourth joint 226 d. The fifthsidewall 218 e and the first sidewall 218 a may form the fifth joint 226e. The first joint 226 a, the second joint 226 b, the third joint 226 c,the fourth joint 226 d, and the fifth joint 226 e may be generallyreferred to as joints 226 or joint 226 in the present disclosure.

The joints 226 may be formed as a rounded surface. In other embodiments,the joints 226 may be formed to include a radius. The radius may bebetween about one-half inches and about three inches. In addition, thejunction box 106 may include a first nodule 296 a, a second nodule 296b, a third nodule 296 c, a fourth nodule 296 d, and a fifth nodule 296 e(generally, nodules 296 or nodule 296). The nodules 296 may be formed aspart of the joints 226. For example, the first nodule 296 a may beformed as part of the first joint 226 a; the second nodule 296 b may beformed as part of the second joint 226 b; the third nodule 296 c may beformed as part of the third joint 226 c; the fourth nodule 296 d may beformed as part of the fourth joint 226 d; and the fifth nodule 296 e maybe formed as part of the fifth joint 226 e.

The nodules 296 may be formed so as to extend from the housing 210towards the edges 224 of the flashing 212. For example, the first nodule296 a may extend from the housing 210 towards the first edge 224 a; thesecond nodule 296 b may extend from the housing 210 towards the secondedge 224 b; the third nodule 296 c and the fourth nodule 296 d mayextend from the housing 210 towards the third edge 224 c; and the fifthnodule 296 e may extend from the housing 210 towards the fourth edge 224d.

The bottom portion 350 may be attached to the sidewalls 218. The secondgroove 352 may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole in thebottom portion 350 (e.g., suitable hole positions in the bottom portion350). For example, a first portion 446 of the bottom portion 350 may bepositioned within a perimeter of the second groove 352 and may be asuitable position for creating a hole in the bottom portion 350.Furthermore, placement of the second groove 352 may permit the junctionbox 106 to be installed in a place on the exterior surface that reducesa number of connectors or a distance between the junction box 106 and anexternal device rather than being installed to avoid rafters and/orother support structures.

In some embodiments, the second groove 352 may indicate suitableplacement positions of fasteners for attaching the junction box 106 tothe structure. Placement of the fasteners within the housing 210 ratherthan the second surface 222 of the flashing 212 may prevent thefasteners from falling and getting lost because the fasteners may remainwithin the housing 210 if dropped. Additionally or alternatively, thesecond groove 352 may indicate suitable placement of fasteners forattaching a din rail or any other appropriate device to the junction box106.

Although, the second groove 352 as illustrated is a substantiallypentagonal groove defined by the bottom portion 350, the second groove352 may include any appropriate indicia for indicating suitablepositions for creating a hole in the bottom portion 350. For example,the second groove 352 may include a different color than a color of thebottom portion 350, hatching, or any other appropriate indicia.Additionally, although, the second groove 352 as illustrated is apentagonal shape, the second groove 352 may include a square, arectangle, a triangle, or any other appropriate shape.

In some embodiments, the junction box 106 may include a din rail (notillustrated). In some embodiments, the din rail may be attached to thejunction box 106 within the internal volume of the housing 210 via oneor more of the bosses 219. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the dinrail may be attached to the junction box 106 within the internal volumeof the housing 210 via one or more holes created within the secondgroove 352. Additionally, the din rail may include one or more terminalblocks that are attached to the din rail. The din rail and the terminalblocks may be used for routing and/or connecting the cables, wires,and/or other devices from the external device to the internal volume ofthe structure. The terminal blocks may be connectors that electricallycouple two or more cables, wires, and/or other devices to each other bycoupling the two or more cables, wires, and/or other devices to one ormore conductive portions of the terminal blocks.

In some embodiments, the bosses 219 define a first boss hole 294 a, asecond boss hole 294 b, a third boss hole 294 c, and a fourth boss hole294 d (generally, boss hole 294 or boss holes 294). The boss holes 294may permit the din rail and/or terminal blocks to be mounted withouthaving to use a self-tap fastener. In other embodiments, the boss holes294 may be omitted and the bosses 219 may define a recess for receivingfasteners.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 350 may include one or morestand-offs. The stand-offs may define a recess for receiving fasteners.The recess may be defined so as to prevent the fasteners frompenetrating the bottom portion 350. The stand-offs may be used to attachgrounding bars, grounding lugs, din rails, or any other appropriatedevice within the internal volume.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 350 may define a weep hole 291.The weep hole 291 may be configured to permit fluid that is positionedwithin the internal volume defined by the lid 214, the sidewalls 218,and the bottom portion 350 to exit via the weep hole 291. In otherembodiments, the weep hole 291 may be omitted.

In some embodiments, the sidewalls 218 may define a gasket groove (notillustrated) along an upper surface of the sidewalls 218. A gasket 221(e.g., an O-ring, a formed in place (FIP) gasket, or a cure in place(CIP) gasket) may be placed, formed, or cured so as to at leastpartially be within the gasket groove. The gasket 221 may extend beyondthe gasket groove in the z-direction when placed, formed, or cured inthe gasket groove. In some embodiments, the gasket 221 may be pliable soas to conform to the shape of the gasket groove. For example, the gasket221, when placed in the gasket groove, may form a shape that issubstantially similar to the shape of the housing 210 (e.g., a pentagonas illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C). In other embodiments, the gasket 221 maybe pre-formed to the shape of the gasket groove. Alternatively, thegasket 221 may be formed or cured within the gasket groove so as to takethe shape of the housing 210. The gasket 221, when placed, formed, orcured in the gasket groove, may substantially surround an opening 216 ona plane substantially parallel to the second groove 352.

Alternatively, the lid 214 may define a gasket groove (not illustrated)along a bottom surface of the lid 214. The gasket 221 (e.g., an O-ring,a FIP gasket, or a CIP gasket) may be placed, formed, or cured so as toat least partially be within the gasket groove defined by the lid 214.The gasket 221 may extend beyond the gasket groove in the z-directionwhen placed, formed, or cured in the gasket groove.

The junction box 106 may include at least one of a first fastener 217 a,a second fastener 217 b, a third fastener 217 c, a fourth fastener 217d, and a fifth fastener 217 e (generally, fasteners 217 or fastener217). The lid 214 may selectively attach to the housing 210 via thefasteners 217. In some embodiments, the fasteners 217 may include snapon fasteners, friction fit fasteners, or any other appropriate fastenertype for attaching the lid 214 to the housing 210. The lid 214 whenattached to the housing 210 may environmentally seal the internal volumeof the housing 210 (e.g., a volume defined by the lid 214, the bottomportion 350, and the sidewalls 218). The internal volume is discussed inmore detail below in relation to FIG. 3A.

The lid 214 may define at least one of a first opening 223 a, a secondopening 223 b, a third opening 223 c, a fourth opening 223 d, and afifth opening 223 e (generally, openings 223 or opening 223). Theopenings 223 may be defined so as to permit the fasteners 217 to passthrough.

In some embodiments, the housing 210 may define a first receiver opening209 a, a second receiver opening 209 b, a third receiver opening 209 c,a fourth receiver opening 209 d, and a fifth receiver opening 209 e(generally, receiver openings 209 or receiver opening 209). Eachreceiver opening 209 may be concentric with a corresponding opening 223.In some embodiment, the receiver openings 209 may be positionedproximate the joints 226 or the nodules 296. The receiver openings 209may be configured to receive the fasteners 217 so as to attach the lid214. In some embodiments, the fasteners 217 may include screws withthreads that mate with a threaded portion of the receiver openings 209.In other embodiments, the housing 210 may not define the receiveropenings 209 and the fasteners 217 may include self-tapper screws thatare configured to create tapper openings (not illustrated) that operatethe same as or similar to the receiver openings 209.

The receiver openings 209 may be defined such that the receiver openings209 pass through the entire junction box 106 in the z-direction. In someembodiments, the junction box 106 may include a first press nut, asecond press nut, a third press nut, a fourth press nut, and a fifthpress nut (generally, press nut or press nuts). The press nuts mayinclude a threaded portion, a snap on portion, a friction fit portion,or any other appropriate type of portion for receiving the fasteners 217and attaching the lid 214 to the housing 210.

The press nuts may be configured to be pressed into the receiveropenings 209. When pressed into the receiver openings 209, the pressnuts may apply pressure on walls of the receiver openings 209. Frictioncaused by the pressure applied by the press nuts on the walls of thereceiver openings 209 may cause the press nuts to stay in the receiveropenings 209.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the receiver openings 209 mayinclude a threaded portion, a snap on portion, a friction fit portion,or any other appropriate type of portion for receiving the fasteners 217and attaching the lid 214 to the housing 210.

Each of the fasteners 217 may include a head portion (e.g., a head) thatis sized so as to be larger than the openings 223. The fasteners 217being attached (e.g., fastened) to the housing 210 may cause the headportions to contact an area substantially surrounding the openings 223and cause the lid 214 to move towards the housing 210. For example, thefasteners 217 may include countersunk screws and the openings 223 may bedefined to include a countersunk portion, the head portion of thefasteners 217 may contact the countersunk portion of the openings 223and move the lid 214 toward the housing 210. As another example, thefasteners 217 may include flange bolts that include a flange portion,the flange portions may contact an upper surface of the lid 214 and movethe lid 214 toward the housing 210. As the lid 214 is moved towards thehousing 210, the gasket 221 may be compressed between a portion of thelid 214 and the portion of the upper surface of the sidewalls 218 thatdefines the gasket groove. Alternatively, in some embodiments, as thelid 214 is moved towards the housing 210, the gasket 221 may becompressed between the portion of the lid 214 that defines the gasketgroove and a portion of the upper surface of the sidewalls 218. The lid214, when attached to the housing 210, may apply pressure on the gasket221 and force the gasket 221 toward the sidewalls 218 in the y-directionand the x-direction. Additionally or alternatively, the lid 214, whenattached to the housing 210, may compress the gasket 221. In someembodiments, the gasket 221 may include an EPDM material or any otherappropriate material.

The lid 214 compressing the gasket 221 may environmentally seal theinternal volume defined by the lid 214, the bottom portion 350, and thesidewalls 218. The internal volume is discussed elsewhere in the presentdisclosure.

The lid 214 may be shaped substantially the same as the housing 210.Additionally, the lid 214 may be shaped such that at least a portion ofan internal perimeter of the lid 214 may be in contact with a portion ofexterior surfaces of the sidewalls 218.

Additionally, the lid 214 may include a raised portion 211 and a lowerportion 227. When the lid 214 is attached to the housing 210, the raisedportion 211 may be higher relative to the bottom portion 350 than thelower portion 227. In some embodiments, the raised portion 211 mayincrease the internal volume defined by the lid 214, the bottom portion350, and the sidewalls 218 compared to junction boxes that include lidsthat do not include the raised portion 211. The raised portion 211 andthe lower portion 227 are discussed in more detail below in relation toFIG. 3A.

In some embodiments, the housing 210 and the flashing 212 may becomprised of a single unibody piece of material. For example, thehousing 210 and the flashing 212 may be formed using mold injectiontechniques as a single piece. In other embodiments, the housing 210 andthe flashing 212 may comprise multiple pieces of material formed into asingle device during manufacturing. For example, the housing 210 maycomprise plastic and the flashing 212 may comprise metal (e.g.,aluminum) that are formed together as a single device duringmanufacturing. As another example, the housing 210 may comprise metaland the flashing 212 may comprise plastic that are formed together as asingle device during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the housing 210and the flashing 212 may comprise multiple pieces of material that areattached to each other using sealant or any other appropriate device.Additionally, in some embodiments, the lid 214 may comprise plastic.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the lid 214 may comprise metal.

In some embodiments, the housing 210, the flashing 212, and the lid 214may include a non-conductive material. In some embodiments, the housing210, the flashing 212, and the lid 214 may include a plastic material, apolycarbonate material, a PVC material, an acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS) material, acrylonitrile styrene and polycarbonate blend(ASA+PC) material, a polycarbonate and ABS blend (PC+ABS) material, orany other appropriate non-conductive material. In these and otherembodiments, the housing 210, the flashing 212, and the lid 214 materialmay be infused with a non-conductive ultraviolet (UV) resistantmaterial. For example, the housing 210, the flashing 212, and the lid214 may be infused with a low molecular weighthydroxyphenyl-benzotriazole material, a high molecular weighthydroxyphenyl-benzotriazole material, or any other appropriatenon-conductive UV resistant material. The housing 210, the flashing 212,and the lid 214 not comprising conductive material may limit a number ofconnections to the junction box 106 since the junction box 106 will notneed to be grounded. Alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more ofthe housing 210, the flashing 212, and the lid 214 may include ametallic material.

The flashing 212 may include a width 297 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 2A)defined between the second edge 224 b and the fourth edge 224 d and alength 295 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 2A) defined between the first edge224 a and the third edge 224 c. In some embodiments, the width 297 maybe between about six inches and about fourteen inches. In these andother embodiments, the length 295 may be between about six inches andabout eighteen inches. The flashing 212 may include a thickness definedin the z-direction between 0.06 inches and an inch. Additionally, theedges 224 may form corners of the flashing 212. In some embodiments, thecorners may be formed to include a substantially ninety-degree angle. Inother embodiments, the corners may be formed to include a radius. Theradius may be between about one-half inches and about three inches.

The sidewalls 218 may include a thickness between about 0.06 inches andabout one inch. The bottom portion 350 may include a thickness definedin the z-direction between about 0.06 inches and about one inch. Thesidewalls 218 may extend a height above the second surface 222. In someembodiments, the height of the sidewalls 218 may be equal to or greaterthan about two and a half inches. In other embodiments, the height ofthe sidewalls 218 may be equal to or less than about fourteen inches.

Although, the sidewalls 218 as illustrated form a pentagonal orsubstantially pentagonal shape, the sidewalls 218 may form anyappropriate shape for shedding fluid and attaching one or moreconnectors to the sidewalls 218.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the fourth joint 226 d and the fifthjoint 226 e may be formed so as to form an angle equal to greater thanninety degrees (e.g., the fifth sidewall 218 e may be positioned at anangle equal to greater than ninety degrees relative to the fourthsidewall 218 d and the third sidewall 218 c may be positioned at anangle equal to greater than ninety degrees relative to the fourthsidewall 218 d).

In some embodiments the third sidewall 218 c, the fourth sidewall 218 d,and the fifth sidewall 218 e may define one or more dimples (notillustrated). In these and other embodiments, the third sidewall 218 c,the fourth sidewall 218 d, and the fifth sidewall 218 e may define acenter dimple that may be aligned with a center portion of the sidewalls218. The center portion may be equidistant from the joints 226 partiallyformed by the sidewalls 218. In some embodiments, the third sidewall 218c, the fourth sidewall 218 d, and the fifth sidewall 218 e may defineone or more weep holes (not illustrated). The weep holes may beconfigured to permit fluid that is positioned within the internal volumedefined by the lid 214, the sidewalls 218, and the bottom portion 350 toexit the internal volume via the weep hole(s).

In some embodiments, the third sidewall 218 c, the fourth sidewall 218d, and the fifth sidewall 218 e may define multiple equidistant dimples.Equidistant dimples may be equally distanced from each other and/or fromthe joints 226 at least partially formed by the sidewalls 218. In someembodiments, the third sidewall 218 c, the fourth sidewall 218 d, andthe fifth sidewall 218 e may define the dimples to be equidistant fromeach other and may also define one of the dimples as a center dimple.The dimples may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole in thesidewalls 218 (e.g., suitable hole positions in the sidewalls 218).

Additionally, in some embodiments, the junction box 106 may include aretention system (not illustrated). The retention system may selectivelyattach the lid 214 to the flashing 212. The retention system may beemployed to prevent the lid 214 from falling or becoming separated fromthe housing 210 and/or the flashing 212. In some embodiments, theflashing 212 may be omitted. In these and other embodiments, theretention system may selectively attach the lid 214 to a sidewall 218.The retention device may include a chord, a strap, a rope, a band, abungee cord, a hinge or any other appropriate device for selectivelyattaching the lid 214 to the flashing 212.

FIG. 3A illustrates a sectional view of the junction box 106 of FIGS.2A-2C. FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of the junction box 106 of FIGS.2A-2C. FIG. 3A is a rear-sectional view across the housing 210 in afirst direction. FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a top view and a bottomview, respectively of the junction box 106 of FIGS. 2A-2C with the lid214 attached to the housing 210.

With combined reference to FIGS. 3A-4B, the opening 216 may provideaccess to an internal volume 348 of the housing 210 (e.g., illustratedin FIG. 3A). The internal volume 348 may be defined by the bottomportion 350, the sidewalls 218, and the lid 214 when the lid 214 isattached to the housing 210.

The first surface 220 of the flashing 212 may be on a substantiallyparallel plane to the second surface 222 of the flashing 212. In thedepicted embodiment, the first groove 442 and the second groove 352 maybe coincident around an axis 356. In some embodiments, the axis 356 maybe positioned at a center axis of the housing 210 and the flashing 212in the y-direction. In other embodiments, the axis 356 may be positionedat another point of the housing 210 and the center axis of the flashing212 in the y-direction. In these and other embodiments, the axis 356 maybe positioned at another point of the flashing 212 and the center axisof the housing 210 in the y-direction. In some embodiments, the firstgroove 442 and the second groove 352 may not be coincident around theaxis 356.

In some embodiments, the first groove 442 may be disposed relative to afirst center axis (not illustrated) on a first plane (e.g., a plane ofthe first surface 220 of the flashing 212). In these and otherembodiments, the second groove 352 may be disposed relative to a secondcenter axis (not illustrated) on a second plane (e.g., a plane of thebottom portion 350 of the housing 210) that is substantially parallel tothe first plane. Additionally or alternatively, the second center axismay be coincident with the first center axis. The second center axis maybe coincident with the first center axis on the second plane in adirection that is substantially parallel to the first plane. In someembodiments, the first center axis and the second center axis maycorrespond to the axis 356 illustrated in FIG. 3A.

The raised portion 211, when the lid 214 is attached to the housing 210,may be a first distance 329 away from the bottom portion 350 (e.g.,illustrated in FIG. 3B). The lower portion 227 a-b, when the lid 214 isattached to the housing 210, may be a second distance 331 away from thebottom portion 350 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3B). The first distance329 may be equal to or greater than the second distance 331. In someembodiments, the first distance 329 may be equal to or greater thansubstantially two inches. In these and other embodiments, the seconddistance 331 may be equal to or greater than substantially one inch. Theraised portion 211, when the first distance 329 is greater than thesecond distance 331, may increase the internal volume 348 defined by thebottom portion 350, the sidewalls 218, and the lid 214 when the lid 214is attached to the housing 210.

The perimeter of the second groove 352 may be a first distance 444 aaway from the first edge 224 a (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3B), a seconddistance 444 b away from the second edge 224 b (e.g., illustrated inFIG. 3B), a third distance 444 c away from the third edge 224 c (e.g.,illustrated in FIG. 3B), and a fourth distance 444 d away from thefourth edge 224 d (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3B). The first distance 444a, the second distance 444 b, the third distance 444 c, and the fourthdistance 444 d are collectively referred to as distances 444.

In some embodiments, each of the distances 444 may be equal to orgreater than the particular distance. The particular distance may beselected to ensure that the fasteners and holes are implemented in aninterior portion of the junction box 106. Additionally, in someembodiments, at least some of the distances 444 may be equal to oneanother. For example, the second distance 444 b, the third distance 444c, and the fourth distance 444 d may be equal to each other and thefirst distance 444 a may be different. In other embodiments, thedistances 444 may all be different from one another. In someembodiments, the particular distance may be equal to or greater thanabout one inch. For example, the particular distance may be equal toabout one and a half inches. As another example, the particular distancemay be equal to about two inches.

In some embodiments, a distance from a center axis of the second groove352 in the y direction to a center axis of the first groove 442 in the ydirection may be equal to or greater than substantially one quarterinch.

In some embodiments, the first portion 446 of the bottom portion 350 mayinclude an EPDM rubber material. In other embodiments, the first portion446 of the bottom portion 350 may include a thickness that is less thanthe thickness of the bottom portion 350 between the perimeter of thesecond groove 352 and the sidewalls 218. The first portion 446 of thebottom portion 350 may permit an EMT pipe or any other appropriateconnector type to push through the first portion 446 of the bottomportion 350 so as to create an appropriately sized and positioned holein the first portion 446 of the bottom portion 350. In some embodiments,the first portion 446 may not be included (e.g., the first portion 446may be pre-cut) so that no material is cut during installation of thejunction box 106 on a structure.

In some embodiments, the bosses 219 may be disposed within an internalperimeter of the first groove 442 and outside an external perimeter ofthe second groove 352 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 4B). In these and otherembodiments a distance between the internal perimeter of the firstgroove 442 and the external perimeter of the second groove 352 may beequal to or greater than one quarter inch.

In some embodiments, the second groove 352 may include indicia (notillustrated) indicating suitable placement of fasteners used forattaching the junction box 106 to a structure (e.g., 108 of FIG. 1). Theindicia may indicate suitable fastener locations in the bottom portion350. The indicia may indicate suitable zones for placement of thefasteners to balance a load associated with attachment of the junctionbox 106 to the structure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate side views of the junction box 106 of FIGS.2A-2C. With combined reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in some embodiments,when the lid 214 is attached to the housing 210, the lid 214, theflashing 212, and the joints 226 may define a first area 633 a (e.g.,illustrated in FIG. 5B), a second area 633 b (e.g., illustrated in FIG.5A), a third area 633 c (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 5A), a fourth area633 d (not illustrated), and a fifth area 633 e (e.g., illustrated inFIG. 5B). For example, the lid 214, the flashing 212, the first nodule296 a, and the second nodule 296 b may define the second area 633 b; thelid 214, the flashing 212, the second nodule 296 b, and the third nodule296 c may define the third area 633 c; the lid 214, the flashing 212,the first nodule 296 a, and the fifth nodule 296 e may define the firstarea 633 a; the lid 214, the flashing 212, the third nodule 296 c, andthe fourth nodule 296 d may define the fourth area 633 d, and the lid214, the flashing 212, the fourth nodule 296 d, and the fifth nodule 296e may define the fifth area 633 e. The first area 633 a, the second area633 b, the third area 633 c, the fourth area 633 d, and the fifth area633 e may be generally referred to as areas 633 or area 633 in thepresent disclosure.

The areas 633 may indicate suitable positions for creating holes in thesidewalls 218 (e.g., suitable hole positions in the sidewalls 218). Forexample, the first area 633 a may indicate suitable positions forcreating a hole in the first sidewall 218 a, the second area 633 b mayindicate suitable positions for creating a hole in the second sidewall218 b, the third area 633 c may indicate suitable positions for creatinga hole in the third sidewall 218 c; the fourth area 633 d may indicatesuitable positions for creating a hole in the fourth sidewall 218 d; andthe fifth area 633 e may indicate suitable positioned for creating ahole in the fifth sidewall 218 e.

In some embodiments, the sidewalls 218 may include a first knockout 555a, a second knockout 555 b, a third knockout 555 c, a fourth knockout555 d, a fifth knockout 555 e, a sixth knockout 555 f, a seventhknockout 555 g, and an eighth knockout 555 h (referenced collectively inthe present disclosure as “knockouts 555”). The knockouts 555 mayindicate suitable hole positions for creating holes in the sidewalls218.

In some embodiments, instead of the knockouts 555, the sidewalls 218 maydefine center lines along the exterior surface of the sidewalls 218. Thecenter lines may be substantially parallel to the second surface 222.The center lines may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole inthe sidewalls 218.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a bottom view 600 a and a top view 600 b,respectively, of the junction box 106 of FIGS. 2A-2C. With combinedreference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some embodiments, the junction box 106may include a first adhesive material 601 (illustrated in FIG. 6A) and asecond adhesive material 605 (illustrated in FIG. 6B). The firstadhesive material 601 may be configured to adhere (e.g., mount) thejunction box 106 to the exterior surface of the structure. Additionally,the second adhesive material 605 may be configured to adhere (e.g.,attach) one or more shingles to the junction box 106.

In some embodiments, the first adhesive material 601 and the secondadhesive material 605 may include a peel and stick material. In someembodiments, a cover (not illustrated) may be attached to a surface ofthe first adhesive material 601 opposite the first surface 220 of theflashing 212 (e.g., a first adhesive surface). In these and otherembodiments, another cover (not illustrated) may be attached to asurface of the second adhesive material 605 opposite the second surface222 of the flashing 212 (e.g., a second adhesive surface). The coversmay be configured to be peeled away from the first adhesive material 601and/or the second adhesive material 605 to expose the first adhesivesurface and/or the second adhesive surface. The adhesive surfaces (e.g.,the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface) may be usedmount the junction box 106 to the exterior surface of the structureand/or to attach the shingles to the junction box 106.

The first adhesive material 601 may be attached to at least a portion ofthe first surface 220 of the flashing 212. In some embodiments, thefirst adhesive material 601 may be positioned on the first surface 220of the flashing 212 between a perimeter of the first groove 442 and theedges 224 of the flashing 212. In other embodiments, the first adhesivematerial 601 may be positioned on the first groove 442 only. In theseand other embodiments, the first adhesive material 601 may indicatesuitable placement of sealant on the first surface 220 of the flashing212.

In some embodiments, the first adhesive material 601 may define anadhesive opening 603 that is adjacent to the third edge 224 c of theflashing 212. The adhesive opening 603, when the junction box 106 ismounted to the structure, may be defined so as to permit fluid ormoisture that builds up between the junction box 106 and the structureto exit via the adhesive opening 603. For example, fluid that ispositioned in a volume defined by the first adhesive material 601, thefirst surface 220 of the flashing 212, and the structure may exit thisvolume via the adhesive opening 603. In addition, the adhesive opening603 may be defined to permit fluid that exits the internal volume 348 ofthe housing 210 via the weep hole 291 to also exit the volume defined bythe first adhesive material 601, the first surface 220 of the flashing212, and the structure. In some embodiments in which the weep hole 291is omitted, the first adhesive material 601 may be attached to the firstsurface 220 of the flashing 212 such that the adhesive opening 603 isomitted.

In some embodiments, the second adhesive material 605 may be attached toat least a portion of the second surface 222 of the flashing 212. Inthese and other embodiments, the second adhesive material 605 may bepositioned anywhere on the second surface 222 of the flashing 212. Forexample, the second adhesive material 605 may be positioned on thesecond surface 222 of the flashing 212 between the first joint 226 a(e.g., the first nodule 296 a) and the first edge 224 a of the flashing212. As another example, the second adhesive material 605 may bepositioned on the second surface 222 of the flashing 212 between thefirst edge 224 a of the flashing 212, the second edge 224 b of theflashing 212, and the fourth edge 224 d of the flashing 212 and thefirst nodule 296 a, the second nodule 296 b, and the fifth nodule 296 e.

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear sectional view 700 of an alternative sidewalland lid configuration that may be implemented in the junction box 106 ofFIG. 1. The lid 214 may include a lid lip 709 and the housing 210 mayinclude a housing lip 707. The lid lip 709 and the housing lip 707 maybe configured to interface to cause the lid 214 to selectively attach tothe housing 210 via the interface between the lid lip 709 and thehousing lip 707. For example, the lid lip 709 and the housing lip 707may be configured to permit the lid 214 to slide (e.g., a slide fit)onto the housing 210 to selectively attach the lid 214 to the housing210. As another example, the lid lip 709 and the housing lip 707 may beconfigured to permit the lid 214 to press (e.g., a press fit) onto thehousing 210 to selectively attach the lid 214 to the housing 210. As yetanother example, the lid lip 709 and the housing lip 707 may beconfigured to permit the lid 214 to snap (e.g., a snap fit) onto thehousing 210 to selectively attach the lid 214 to the housing 210.

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an alternative junction box 800configuration that may be implemented in the environment 100 of FIG. 1.The alternative junction box 800 may be substantially similar to thejunction box 106 described elsewhere in the present disclosure. Thealternative junction box 800 may include an alternative housing 815. Thealternative housing 815 may include an external portion 819 and thebottom portion 350 (not illustrated in FIG. 8). The external portion 819may define the first groove 442 (not illustrated in FIG. 8). The bottomportion 350 may define the second groove 352 on a lower surface 821 ofthe external portion 819. The second groove 352 may indicate suitablepositions for creating a hole in the bottom portion 350 (e.g., suitablehole positions in the bottom portion 350).

In some embodiments, the first groove 442 may be disposed relative tothe first center axis (not illustrated) on a first plane (e.g., thelower surface 821 of the external portion 819). In these and otherembodiments, the second groove 352 may be disposed relative to thesecond center axis (not illustrated) on a second plane (e.g., a plane ofthe bottom portion 350 of the alternative housing 815 corresponding tothe lower surface 821) that is substantially parallel to the firstplane. Additionally or alternatively, the second center axis may becoincident with the first center axis. The second center axis may becoincident with the first center axis on the second plane in a directionthat is substantially parallel to the first plane.

The external portion 819 may define a notch 823. The notch 823 may bedefined to mate with an uneven exterior surface of the structure. Forexample, the notch 823 may be defined to mate with a shingle on theexterior surface of the structure. The lid 214 may selectively attach tothe alternative housing 815 via the fasteners 217. The lid 214, whenattached to the alternative housing 815, may seal an internal volumedefined by the alternative housing 815 and the lid 214. In someembodiments, the alternative junction box may include a second piece817. The second piece 817 may attach to the external portion 819. Thesecond piece 817, when attached to the external portion 819, may permitthe alternative junction box 800 to be attached substantially flush witha substantially flat profile of the exterior surface of the structure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a junction box 900 thatincludes the housing 210, the flashing 212, and an extension housing 950that may be implemented in the environment of FIG. 1. The junction box900 may be configured to environmentally seal a volume in a similarmanner as the junction box 106 discussed elsewhere in the presentdisclosure.

The junction box 900 may be configured to be used with tile shinglesthat extend above the exterior surface of the structure. For example,the junction box 900 may include a second flashing 956 (e.g., a tileflashing) that is pliable. The second flashing 956 may be configured tocontact a portion of the exterior surface of the tile shingles. Thesecond flashing 956 may be pliable so as to conform to a shape of theexterior surface of the tile shingles. The second flashing 956 mayinclude an aluminum material, a rubber material, a rubber material withan aluminum mesh, a plastic material, a lead material, a metal material,or any other appropriate pliable material. In some embodiments, thesecond flashing 956 may include a second portion (not illustrated)attached to one or more edges of the second flashing 956. In these andother embodiments, the second portion may be configured to be shaped andmaintain the shape of the exterior surface of the tile shingles. Inaddition, the extension housing 950 may be configured to increase aheight in the y-direction of junction box 900 so as to extend above thetile shingles relative to the exterior surface of the structure. In someembodiments, the height of the sidewalls 218 in the junction box 900 maybe between 0.25 inches and three inches.

In some embodiments, the second flashing 956 may include an adhesivematerial (e.g., a peel and stick material) configured to attach thesecond flashing to the tile shingles.

The extension housing 950 may be shaped substantially the same as thehousing 210. The housing 210 and the extension housing 950 may provide adurable and environmentally sealed device for routing cables, wires,and/or other devices from the external device mounted on the exteriorsurface of the structure to the internal space of the structure. In someembodiments, the extension housing 950 may be shaped such that at leasta portion of an internal perimeter of the extension housing 950 (e.g., adrip edge 954) may be in contact with a portion of exterior surfaces ofthe sidewalls 218. In other embodiments, a portion of the secondflashing 956 may be positioned between the drip edge 954 and the housing210 when the extension housing 950 is attached to the housing 210. Inthese and other embodiments, the drip edge 954 may overlap a portion ofthe second flashing 956 in the z-direction to prevent fluid fromtraversing along a surface of the second flashing and entering theextended volume. Example configurations for attaching the secondflashing 956, the extension housing 950, and the housing 210 arediscussed in more detail below in relation to FIGS. 11A-11C.

The drip edge 954 may be configured to overhang where the housing 210and the extension housing 950 attach and/or where the second flashing956 attaches to the housing 210 and the extension housing 950. The dripedge 954 may prevent fluid from entering an extended internal volumedefined by housing 210 and the extension housing 950.

The extension housing 950 may include a first extension sidewall 952 a,a second extension sidewall 952 b, a third extension sidewall 952 c, afourth extension sidewall 952 d, and a fifth extension sidewall 952 e(referenced collectively in the present disclosure as “extensionsidewalls 952”). The extension sidewalls 952 may operate the same as orsimilar to the sidewalls 218 discussed above but with reference to theextension housing 950 instead of the housing 210.

The first extension sidewall 952 a and the second extension sidewall 952b may form a first extension joint 958 a. The first extension joint 958a may be positioned such that the first extension joint 958 a isoriented towards the first edge 224 a when the extension housing 950 isattached to the housing 210. The second extension sidewall 952 b and thethird extension sidewall 952 c may form a second extension joint 958 b.The third extension sidewall 952 c and the fourth extension sidewall 952d may form a third extension joint 958 c. The fourth extension sidewall952 d and the fifth extension sidewall 952 e sidewall may form a fourthextension joint 958 d. The fifth extension sidewall 952 e and the firstextension sidewall 952 a form a fifth extension joint 958 e. The firstextension joint 958 a, the second extension joint 958 b, the thirdextension joint 958 c, the fourth extension joint 958 d, and the fifthextension joint 958 e may be generally referred to as extension joints958 or extension joint 958 in the present disclosure. The extensionjoints 958 may operate the same as or similar to the joints 226discussed above but with reference to the extension housing 950 insteadof the housing 210.

In addition, the junction box 900 may include a first extension nodule960 a, a second extension nodule 960 b, a third extension nodule 960 c,a fourth extension nodule 960 d, and a fifth extension nodule 960 e(generally, extension nodules 960 or extension nodules 960). Theextension nodules 960 may be formed as part of the extension joints 958.For example, the first extension nodule 960 a may be formed as part ofthe first extension joint 958 a; the second extension nodule 960 b maybe formed as part of the second extension joint 958 b; the thirdextension nodule 960 c may be formed as part of the third extensionjoint 958 c; the fourth extension nodule 960 d may be formed as part ofthe fourth extension joint 958 d; and the fifth extension nodule 960 emay be formed as part of the fifth extension joint 958 e. The extensionnodules 960 may operate the same as or similar to the nodules 296discussed above but with reference to the extension housing 950 insteadof the housing 210.

In some embodiments, the extension sidewalls 952 may define the gasketgroove (not illustrated in FIG. 9) along an upper surface of theextension sidewalls 952. The gasket 221 (not illustrated in FIG. 9) maybe placed, formed, or cured so as to at least partially be within thegasket groove.

In some embodiments, the junction box 900 may include multiple fasteners(not illustrated) that operate the same as or similar to the fasteners217 of the junction box 106 discussed above. The lid 214 may selectivelyattach to the extension housing 950 via the fasteners. The lid 214 whenattached to the extension housing 950 may environmentally seal theextended internal volume defined by the housing 210 and the extensionhousing 950 (e.g., a volume defined by the lid 214, the bottom portion350, the sidewalls 218, and the extension sidewalls 952). The extendedinternal volume is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG.10.

In some embodiments, the junction box 900 may include multiple fastenersconfigured to attach the extension housing 950 to the housing 210. Inthese and other embodiments, the junction box 900 may also includemultiple fasteners configured to attach the lid 214 to the extensionhousing 950.

In some embodiments, the extension housing 950 may define extensionreceiver openings that operate the same as or similar to the receiveropenings 209 discussed above. In addition, the extension receiveropenings may be concentric with the corresponding openings 223 of thelid 214 and the receiver openings 209 in the housing 210. The extensionreceiver openings may be configured to receive the fasteners so as toattach the lid 214 to the extension housing 950 and the extensionhousing 950 to the housing 210.

The extension receiver openings may be defined such that the extensionreceiver openings pass through the entire extension housing 950 in thez-direction. In some embodiments, the junction box 900 may includemultiple press nuts (not illustrated) that operate the same as orsimilar to the press nuts discussed above. In other embodiments, thefasteners may pass through the extension receiver openings and attach tothe housing 210 via the threaded portion, the snap on portion, thefriction fit portion, the press nuts, or the any other appropriate typeof portion for receiving the fasteners and attaching the lid 214 to theextension housing 950.

In some embodiments, as the lid 214 is moved towards the extensionhousing 950, the gasket 221 may be compressed between the portion of thelid 214 that defines the gasket groove and a portion of an upper surfaceof the extension sidewalls 952. The lid 214, when attached to theextension housing 950, may apply pressure on the gasket 221 and forcethe gasket 221 toward the extension sidewalls 952 in the y-direction andthe x-direction. Additionally or alternatively, the lid 214, whenattached to the extension housing 950, may compress the gasket 221. Thelid 214 compressing the gasket 221 may environmentally seal the extendedinternal volume defined by the lid 214, the bottom portion 350, thesidewalls 218, and the extension sidewalls 952.

In some embodiments, when the lid 214 is attached to the extensionhousing 950, the lid 214, the drip edge 954, and the extension joints958 may define a first area 962 a, a second area 962 b (not illustratedin FIG. 9), a third area 962 c (not illustrated in FIG. 9), a fourtharea 962 d, and a fifth area 962 e. For example, the lid 214, the dripedge 954, the first extension nodule 960 a, and the fifth extensionnodule 960 e may define the first area 962 a; the lid 214, the drip edge954, the fifth extension nodule 960 e, and the fourth extension nodule960 d may define the fifth area 962 e; the lid 214, the drip edge 954,the fourth extension nodule 960 d, and the third extension nodule 960 cmay define the fourth area 962 d; the lid 214, the drip edge 954, thethird extension nodule 960 c, and the second extension nodule 960 b maydefine the third area 962 c; and the lid 214, the drip edge 954, thesecond extension nodule 960 b, and the first extension nodule 960 a maydefine the second area 962 b. The first area 962 a, the second area 962b, the third area 962 c, the fourth area 962 d, and the fifth area 962 emay be generally referred to as areas 962 or area 962 in the presentdisclosure.

The areas 962 may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole in theextension sidewalls 952 (e.g., suitable hole positions in the extensionsidewalls 952). For example, the first area 962 a may indicate suitablepositions for creating a hole in the first extension sidewall 952 a, thesecond area 962 b may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole inthe second extension sidewall 952 b, the third area 962 c may indicatesuitable positions for creating a hole in the third extension sidewall952 c; the fourth area 962 d may indicate suitable positions forcreating a hole in the fourth extension sidewall 952 d, and the fiftharea 962 e may indicate suitable positions for creating a hole in thefifth extension sidewall 952 e.

In some embodiments, the extension housing 950 may include anon-conductive material the same as or similar to the housing 210 andthe flashing 212 as discussed above. In these and other embodiments, theextension housing 950 material may be infused with a non-conductiveultraviolet (UV) resistant material such as a low molecular weighthydroxyphenyl-benzotriazole material, a high molecular weighthydroxyphenyl-benzotriazole material, or any other appropriatenon-conductive UV resistant material. The extension housing 950 notcomprising conductive material may limit a number of connections to thejunction box 900 since the junction box 900 will not need to begrounded. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the extension housing 950may include a metallic material.

FIG. 10 illustrates a rear sectional view of the junction box 900 ofFIG. 9. The gasket 221, when placed, formed, or cured in the gasketgroove, may substantially surround an opening 1016 on a planesubstantially parallel to the second groove 352. The opening 1016 mayprovide access to the extended internal volume 1048 of the housing 210and the extension housing 950. The extended internal volume 1048 may bedefined by the bottom portion 350, the sidewalls 218, the extensionsidewalls 952, and the lid 214 when the lid 214 is attached to theextension housing 950.

Additionally, the lid 214 may include a raised portion 211 and a lowerportion 227. When the lid 214 is attached to the extension housing 950,the raised portion 211 may be higher relative to the bottom portion 350than the lower portion 227. In some embodiments, the raised portion 211may increase the extended internal volume 1048 defined by the lid 214,the bottom portion 350, the sidewalls 218, and the extension sidewalls952 compared to junction boxes that include lids that do not include theraised portion 211.

The raised portion 211, when the lid 214 is attached to the extensionhousing 950, may be a first distance 1029 away from the bottom portion350. The lower portion 227 a-b, when the lid 214 is attached to theextension housing 950, may be a second distance 1031 away from thebottom portion 350. The first distance 1029 may be equal to or greaterthan the second distance 1031. In some embodiments, the first distance1029 may be equal to or greater than substantially four inches. In theseand other embodiments, the second distance 1031 may be equal to orgreater than substantially three inches. The raised portion 211, whenthe first distance 1029 is greater than the second distance 1031, mayincrease the extended internal volume 1048 defined by the bottom portion350, the sidewalls 218, the extension sidewalls 952, and the lid 214when the lid 214 is attached to the extension housing 950.

In some embodiments, when the extension housing 950 is attached to thehousing 210, an upper surface 1066 a-b of the sidewalls 218 may contacta lower surface 1064 a-b of the extension sidewalls 952. In otherembodiments, the second flashing 956 may be positioned between theextension housing 950 and the housing 210 such that the lower surface1064 a-b and the upper surface 1066 a-b contact the second flashing 956.Various configurations of the second flashing are discussed in moredetail below in relation to FIGS. 11A-11C. In some embodiments, thesecond flashing 956 may be attached to the housing 210 and/or theextension housing 950 using rivets, glue or other adhesive material,tension fit, or fasteners.

In some embodiments, the extension housing 950 may include an interioredge (not illustrated). An external perimeter of the interior edge maybe in contact with a portion of internal surfaces of the sidewalls 218.The interior edge may be configured to properly position the extensionhousing 950 relative to the housing 210.

FIG. 11A illustrates an example configuration for attaching the secondflashing 956 to the junction box 900 of FIG. 9. The exampleconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 11A includes a portion of the secondflashing 956 positioned between the drip edge 954 and the exteriorsurface of the sidewalls 218 and another portion of the second flashing956 positioned between the upper surface 1066 and the lower surface1064. The extension housing 950 when attached to the housing 210 maycompress the second flashing 956 between the upper surface 1066 and thelower surface 1064. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 11A, thesecond flashing 956 may extend into the extended internal volume 1048.In other embodiments, the second flashing 956 may not extend into theextended internal volume 1048. For example, the edge of the secondflashing 956 may be flush with internal surfaces of the sidewalls 218and the extension sidewalls 952. As another example, the edge of thesecond flashing 956, the lower surface 1064, and the upper surface 1066may define a recess.

FIG. 11B illustrates another example configuration for attaching thesecond flashing 956 to the junction box 900 of FIG. 9. The exampleconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 11B includes a portion of the secondflashing 956 positioned between the drip edge 954 and the exteriorsurface of the sidewalls 218 and another portion of the second flashing956 positioned between the upper surface 1066 and the lower surface1064. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 11A, the upper surface1066 may include a protrusion 1067 configured to mate with a recess 1069defined by the lower surface 1064. The protrusion 1067 and the recess1069 may be configured to “bite” the second flashing 956 when theextension housing 950 is attached to the housing 210 to prevent thesecond flashing 956 from moving. In some embodiments, the protrusion1067 and the recess 1069 may be configured to properly position theextension housing 950 relative to the housing 210.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 11B, the second flashing 956may extend into the extended internal volume 1048. In other embodiments,the second flashing 956 may not extend into the extended internal volume1048. For example, the edge of the second flashing 956 may be flush withinternal surfaces of the sidewalls 218 and the extension sidewalls 952.As another example, the edge of the second flashing 956, the lowersurface 1064, and the upper surface 1066 may define a recess.

FIG. 11C illustrates yet another example configuration for attaching thesecond flashing 956 to the junction box 900 of FIG. 9. The exampleconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 11C includes a portion of the secondflashing 956 positioned between the drip edge 954 and the exteriorsurface of the sidewalls 218. In some embodiments, as illustrated inFIG. 11C, the upper surface 1066 may physically contact the lowersurface 1064 when the extension housing 950 is attached to the housing210.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularembodiments described in the present disclosure, which are intended asillustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations canbe made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparentto those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods andapparatuses within the scope of the present disclosure, in addition tothose enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations areintended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The presentdisclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims,along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims areentitled. It is to be understood that the present disclosure is notlimited to particular methods, reagents, compounds, compositions, orbiological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to belimiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from the scope of the present embodiment. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicatedby the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A junction box comprising: a flashing thatdefines a first groove that is disposed relative to a first center axison a first plane; and a housing including: a bottom portion defining asecond groove that is disposed relative to a second center axis,wherein: the second center axis is coincident with the first center axisin a direction that is substantially parallel to the first plane of thefirst groove; the second groove is located on a second plane that issubstantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove; and thesecond groove is configured to indicate a suitable hole position in thebottom portion.
 2. The junction box of claim 1, the housing furthercomprising a plurality of sidewalls that form a plurality of joints, theplurality of joints including a first joint formed by a first sidewalland a second sidewall that is oriented towards a first edge of theflashing.
 3. The junction box of claim 2 further comprising a lidselectively attachable to the housing, wherein when the lid is attachedto the housing, the lid; the flashing; and the joints define areas thatindicate suitable hole positions for creating holes in the plurality ofsidewalls.
 4. The junction box of claim 2 further comprising an adhesivematerial attached to and positioned on a second surface of the flashingbetween the first joint and the first edge of the flashing.
 5. Thejunction box of claim 2, wherein the plurality of sidewalls defineknockouts that indicate suitable hole positions for creating holes inplurality of sidewalls.
 6. The junction box of claim 2, wherein theplurality of sidewalls include a third sidewall, a fourth sidewall, anda fifth sidewall that define center lines that indicate suitable holepositions for creating holes in the third sidewall, the fourth sidewall,and the fifth sidewall.
 7. The junction box of claim 1 furthercomprising an adhesive material attached to a first surface of theflashing such that the adhesive material is positioned on the firstsurface of the flashing between the first groove and a plurality ofedges of the flashing.
 8. The junction box of claim 7 wherein theadhesive material defines an opening adjacent to a third edge of theflashing, the opening being defined so as to permit moisture that buildsup between the junction box and a structure to pass through.
 9. Thejunction box of claim 1 the housing further comprising a housing lip,the junction box further comprising a lid including a lid lip configuredto mate with the housing lip, the lid being selectively attachable tothe housing via an interface between the housing lip and the lid lip.10. The junction box of claim 1, wherein the flashing and the housingare a single, unibody piece.
 11. The junction box of claim 1, wherein:the housing further defines: a gasket groove defined by an upper surfaceof the housing; and one or more receiver openings; and the junction boxfurther comprises: a gasket located at least partially within the gasketgroove; a lid selectively attachable to the housing and that defines oneor more openings, wherein each of the one or more openings areconcentric with a different one of the one or more receiver openings;and one or more fasteners configured to pass through the openings,attach to the housing via the receiver openings, and selectively attachthe lid to the housing such that the lid compresses the gasket betweenthe lid and a portion of the upper surface of the housing that definesthe gasket groove to environmentally seal a volume defined by thehousing and the lid.
 12. The junction box of claim 11, wherein: the lidincludes a raised portion and a lower portion; and the raised portionand the lower portion are sized and configured such that when the lid isattached to the housing a second distance between the bottom portion andthe raised portion is greater than a third distance between the bottomportion of the housing and the lower portion of the lid.
 13. Thejunction box of claim 1, further comprising an edge material comprisingan aluminum material attached to one or more edges of a first portion,the edge material configured to be shaped to a surface.
 14. A junctionbox comprising: a first flashing that defines a first groove that isdisposed relative to a first center axis on a first plane; a housingattached to the first flashing and positioned at least a first distancefrom a plurality of edges of the first flashing, the housing including:a plurality of sidewalls; a bottom portion that is attached to theplurality of sidewalls, the bottom portion defining a second groove thatis disposed relative to a second center axis, wherein: the second centeraxis is coincident with the first center axis in a direction that issubstantially parallel to the first plane of the first groove; thesecond groove is located on a second plane that is substantiallyparallel to the first plane of the first groove; and the second grooveis configured to indicate a suitable hole position in the bottomportion; an extension housing configured to attach to an upper surfaceof the housing, the extension housing comprising: a plurality ofextension sidewalls; and a drip edge configured to overhang where thehousing and the extension housing are attached; and a second flashingpositioned between at least a portion of the drip edge and the housing.15. The junction box of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sidewallsform a plurality of joints including a first joint formed by a firstsidewall and a second sidewall and the plurality of extension sidewallsform a plurality of extension joints including a first extension jointformed by a first extension sidewall and a second extension sidewall,the first joint and the first extension joint are oriented towards afirst edge of the first flashing.
 16. The junction box of claim 14,wherein the plurality of extension sidewalls form a plurality ofextension joints, the junction box further comprising a lid selectivelyattachable to the extension housing, wherein when the lid is attached tothe extension housing, the lid; the drip edge; and the extension jointsdefine areas that indicate suitable hole positions for creating holes inthe extension sidewalls.
 17. The junction box of claim 14, wherein theplurality of extension sidewalls define knockouts that indicate suitablehole positions for creating holes in the plurality of extensionsidewalls.
 18. The junction box of claim 14, wherein the second flashingcomprising a first portion and a second portion attached to one or moreedges of the first portion that includes an aluminum material, thesecond portion configured to be shaped to a surface.
 19. A junction boxcomprising: a housing including: a plurality of sidewalls; an externalportion that is attached to the plurality of sidewalls, the externalportion defining a first groove that is disposed relative to a firstcenter axis on a first plane; and a bottom portion that is attached tothe plurality of sidewalls, the bottom portion defining a second groovethat is disposed relative to a second center axis, wherein: the externalportion defines a notch configured to mate with an uneven exteriorsurface of a structure; the second center axis is coincident with thefirst center axis in a direction that is substantially parallel to thefirst plane of the first groove; the second groove is located on asecond plane that is substantially parallel to the first plane of thefirst groove; and the second groove is configured to indicate a suitablehole position in the bottom portion.
 20. The junction box of claim 19further comprising: a lid selectively attachable to the housing suchthat the lid environmentally seals a volume defined by the housing andthe lid; and a second piece configured to attach to the external portionsuch that the junction box conforms to a substantially flat profile ofthe exterior surface of the structure.